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Crunchy Chicken Tenders

Crunchy Chicken Tenders that Kids Will Devour in Minutes

These Crunchy Chicken Tenders are a quick and healthy homemade alternative that kids love.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Brining Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 22 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins Fresh or frozen, brining recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Dry brining recommended for juiciness.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Gluten-free option available.
  • 2 tablespoons Oil e.g., olive oil.
  • 2 large Eggs Can replace with flaxseed meal for vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons Water Adjusts consistency of egg batter.
  • 1 cup Plain Flour All-purpose or whole wheat.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Garlic powder can be swapped.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Freshly ground recommended.
For Cooking
  • 1 can Cooking Spray Or extra oil for greasing.

Equipment

  • oven
  • Mixing Bowls
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Brine the Chicken: Mix the chicken tenderloins with salt in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 30-40 minutes. Rinse and pat dry after brining.
  2. Toast the Breadcrumbs: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine panko breadcrumbs with oil, spread on a baking sheet, and toast for 8-10 minutes until golden.
  3. Prepare the Batter: Whisk eggs and water together, then mix in flour, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Dip each tenderloin in the egg batter, let excess drip off, then coat in the toasted breadcrumbs.
  5. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Serve: Let rest for a couple of minutes before serving with your favorite dips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Brining is crucial for juicy tenders; toast breadcrumbs for the best crunch. Space tenders evenly while baking for perfect crispiness.

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